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Nearly five million Americans are currently living with this congestive heart failure, also known as "heart failure" or CHF. Anyone of any age can develop CHF and although there is usually no "cure", it can be treated, especially if it is mild or moderate in nature.
What is CHF?
Congestive heart failure, which we will refer to as CHF, happens when the heart has difficulty pumping enough blood to meet the needs of the body. This is usually the result of an underlying condition and may include:
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previous heart attack or heart damage
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coronary artery disease (narrowed arteries)
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valve disease or infection of the valves
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high blood pressure
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cardiomyopathy
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birth defects affecting the heart
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other health problems such as diabetes or kidney disease.
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